Introduction
The Department of Botany was established in 1989 at Old Campus Muzaffarabad. The mission is to discover, maintain, and transmit knowledge concerning basic plant biology and provide leadership in the plant sciences. The department is situated in one of the most diverse and interesting floral kingdoms in the world making it an ideal place for post graduate studies in almost all fields of botany.
Being the premier institution in higher education, it is promoting modern research. The degree programs offer studies in molecular, genetic, cellular, and developmental biology, through physiology, structural botany, molecular systematics, taxonomy, ecology, ethnobotany and evolution. Highly qualified faculty is involved in teaching and research in different sections of botany.
A variety of courses are offered by the department to address the needs of the society in the field of agriculture, education, environment, horticulture, pharmacognosy, pharmacology, etc. It covers various aspects of current research in Botanical Sciences. The departmental library has a good collection of textbooks and Journals, besides these six computers have been installed for researchers/faculty to access digital library. Currently, botany research laboratory has been established and equipped with all necessary facilities for research students of botany.
The department is also engaged in collaborative research with different Universities and research organization like PIEAS and NARC. A herbarium is being established to facilitate the scientists working on different aspects of plant biology. The Department imparts BS, M.Sc., M.Phil. and Ph.D degrees in Botany. The M.Phil and Ph.D. students have to study taught courses and thesis for the partial fulfillment of the degree. The courses are geared towards providing research training in the discipline of Botany. Currently, more than 80 students are perusing M.Phil. and Ph.D. degrees.
VISION STATEMENT
“At the Department of Botany, we envision a future where humanity lives in harmony with nature, leveraging the profound insights of botanical science to sustainably steward the Earth’s rich biodiversity for generations to come. Through rigorous academic inquiry, innovative research, and impactful community engagement, we strive to cultivate a global community of botanists equipped with the knowledge, skills, and ethical commitment to address the most pressing challenges facing our planet. Our vision is one of interconnectedness, where the intricate web of life is understood, respected, and conserved, fostering a greener, healthier, and more resilient world for all species.”
MISSION STATEMENT:
The Department of Botany at the University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir is dedicated to advancing the frontiers of botanical science, education, and outreach to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of plant life and its critical role in sustaining our planet’s ecosystems. Grounded in principles of excellence, integrity, and sustainability, our mission encompasses the following core objectives:
Academic Excellence: We are committed to providing high-quality undergraduate and graduate programs that offer comprehensive training in botanical sciences, including plant anatomy, physiology, ecology, genetics, and taxonomy. Through rigorous coursework, hands-on laboratory experiences, field studies, and research opportunities, we aim to empower our students with the knowledge, skills, and critical thinking abilities necessary to excel in diverse careers related to plant biology, conservation, agriculture, and environmental sustainability.
Cutting-Edge Research: We conduct innovative, interdisciplinary research that addresses fundamental questions in plant biology while also addressing pressing societal challenges, such as climate change, habitat loss, biodiversity conservation, and food security. Our faculty members are engaged in a wide range of research areas, from molecular genetics and biotechnology to ecosystem ecology and conservation biology, collaborating with colleagues across disciplines to generate new knowledge and insights that contribute to scientific advancement and informed decision-making.
Conservation and Sustainability: We are dedicated to promoting the conservation and sustainable use of plant resources and ecosystems at local, regional, and global scales. Through research, education, and outreach initiatives, we work to identify and mitigate threats to plant biodiversity, restore degraded habitats, and develop strategies for sustainable land management, agriculture, and forestry. We also advocate for policies and practices that prioritize the protection and restoration of natural ecosystems and the equitable distribution of resources to ensure the well-being of current and future generations.
Community Engagement and Outreach: We actively engage with diverse stakeholders, including students, educators, policymakers, community organizations, and the general public, to raise awareness about the importance of plants and ecosystems and inspire action towards their conservation and sustainable management. Through outreach programs, public lectures, workshops, citizen science projects, and partnerships with local schools, botanical gardens, and conservation organizations, we strive to foster greater appreciation for the beauty, complexity, and value of plant life and empower individuals and communities to become stewards of the environment.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: We are committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment that values and celebrates diversity in all its forms. We actively promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in our student body, faculty, and staff, ensuring equal opportunities for participation, success, and advancement regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, disability, or socio-economic background. By fostering a culture of respect, empathy, and collaboration, we seek to harness the collective talents and perspectives of our diverse community to address complex challenges and drive positive change in our field and society.
Through our unwavering dedication to excellence in education, research, and outreach, we aspire to be a leader in botanical science and a catalyst for positive environmental change, working towards a more sustainable and equitable future for all mankind as well as biodiversity.
Contact Details
Phone: 92.5822.962316
Email: botany@ajku.edu.pk
